Reviving chrome trim

[kylebes1]

I am looking to revive the chrome trim of this 2002 I am working on... the owner wont let me black it out, so I need to make it shiny.

That chrome polish in the little tub that is red and dries on... that does not work for the BMW trim.

[NC325iC]

i think its aluminum trim(at least it is on e30s), bmpd sells some aluminum rejuvenater for 50 bucks

if im wrong about the aluminum then you may need to have them rechromed

[John in VA]

Most trim on all BMWs is coated aluminum, not chrome. At least that's the case with my 2002, E30, E28 & E46.
It's very difficult to achieve the results you'd expect/like with the kit sold by BavAuto or BMP. Sadly, the best course is to replace the trim or go with Trim Black for the shadowline look.

[BeirBrennerE30]

could you just get the parts chromed( im not too familiar with the process) instead of trying to revive the old aluminium?

also i have always thought that black chrome would looks good for e30 trim... newer bmws use black chrome looking trim

[kylebes1]

The parts could probably be chromed, but I do not want to remove it... we all know how easily it bends.

There are two real options in my mind. One is to leave it alone the other is to black it out which is what I want to do, but not sure if the owner will go for it. Will post the pictures I have been taking.

[morningsmiler]

the trim can be polished the same as any other aluminium, but the clear coat has to be removed first.

What sort of work are you doing on the car?